GREECE & CYPRUS SKIATHOS DESTINATIONS


a constant hive of activity, from billionaires’ mega-yachts to vessels ferrying fans of Mamma Mia! to neighbouring Skopelos, where they can visit its famous chapel perched on a rock – whatever floats your boat. Of the many vessels on offer,


few are likely to have a captain quite as affable as Babis onboard Diamanti, our yacht for the day. Accommodating a maximum of 12 guests, it felt pretty exclusive. Dolphin sightings are likely


if you keep your eyes peeled, although it takes much less effort to spot deserted coves and picture-postcard whitewashed houses along the hillsides that line the rugged coast. We dropped anchor at the uninhabited island of Tsougria and had the entire, idyllic place to ourselves, with the exception of a few goats trying to climb the rocks. However, such solitude is no reason to go hungry, and while we took the opportunity for a dip, Babis proved himself not just a great host but a talented chef, rustling up a seafood feast of mussels and prawns


LEFT: Skiathos town


BELOW: Elemis spa, Elivi Skiathos


We had the entire, idyllic place to ourselves, except for a few goats trying to climb the rocks


bursting with garlic and peppers, all washed down with some obligatory ouzo. This was the life.


 A SPA IS BORN If a holiday here is all about embracing the laid-back local lifestyle, then it seems only fitting to make sure a visit to the hotel spa is on the agenda. The three treatment rooms in the Elemis spa


Tried & Tested ELIVI SKIATHOS


In a setting that would impress Poseidon, Greek god of the sea, Elivi Skiathos sits majestically atop the Punta Peninsula, with panoramic views of the Aegean. Think relaxed, contemporary luxury, with works by local artists and decor complementing the area’s natural surroundings. The family-owned hotel has


161 rooms, suites and villas across three areas – Elivi Xenia Hotel, Grace and Nest – with a funicular lift and golf carts. Accommodation varies widely, but expect plush showers, minimalist decor and high-tech fittings. Guests already torn between beach and pool are unlikely to resolve their dilemma here, with


four of the island’s best beaches close by.


While all of the beaches in


Greece are public, some are less public than others, and the Ambelakia Beach within the Grace area enjoys a particularly exclusive feel. Alternatively, opt for a villa or suite with a private pool. The resort opened last summer, but several new facilities have been added for the coming season, which begins on April 26. Grace has expanded from 11 rooms to 67, including some with hot tubs and private plunge pools. There’s also a kids’ club, three


new restaurants and a new bar, bringing the total up to five restaurants and seven bars across


at Elivi Skiathos sit alongside a pool, sauna and hammam, offering a calming space in which both guests and non-guests can relax. An hour-long, deep-tissue


massage proved invigorating, working away any lingering tension – though whatever your issue, there is likely to be a treatment for it. The spa’s signature option is a


the resort. Particular highlights include the Elevate Bar, where the extensive cocktail and sushi offering is served overlooking Koukounaries Beach. The Leda


and The Swan, are perfect for fine dining under the stars. Book it: Rates start at ¢194 per night based on two sharing a room. elivihotels.com


Tested by David Golledge 28 March 2019travelweekly.co.uk57


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